How to Check Transmission Fluid

If your car is having trouble shifting, that doesn’t necessarily mean that your transmission needs to be replaced or rebuilt. For instance, how often do you check your transmission fluid? If you’re running low, that can seriously affect the performance of your transmission. Fortunately, checking your transmission fluid isn’t hard. A lot of our Omaha area customers do it themselves. Our service center wants you to be informed, so we’ve put together the easy-to-follow directions below on how to check your transmission fluid.

How to Check Transmission Fluid – Automatic Transmissions

• Locate the correct dipstick (don’t confuse it with the oil dipstick!). If your car is a rear-wheel drive, you’ll find the dipstick towards the back of the engine, usually on the passenger side. If your car is front-wheel drive, the dipstick will be towards the front of the engine, usually on the driver’s side.
• Look at the fluid that is on the dipstick, and make sure that it is pink, and doesn’t have flecks of metal in it. If it looks dirty, you will need to have the fluid changed.
• Wipe the dipstick clean and re-insert it.
• Take the dipstick back out and check the level.
• If the level is low, use a funnel and top off the fluid through the dipstick tube (don’t overfill).

How to Check Transmission Fluid – Manual Transmissions

• Secure your car on jack stands or a hoist.
• Locate the fluid fill plug. It is usually halfway up the side of the transmission.
• Unscrew the plug.
• Stick your finger in the plug hole. Examine the fluid on your finger. If it looks dirty (not pink), it is time to change your fluid.
• If you can’t feel fluid, then top off the fluid through the hole.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

How often do you check your transmission fluid? Most manufacturers recommend checking your transmission fluid once a year. Check your owner’s manual or ask your techs to do it whenever you get your oil changed. After all, you don’t want to find yourself broken down somewhere in the greater Columbus area.

Let the Experts at Sid Dillon Buick GMC Fremont Help

If you’re having trouble with our transmission, schedule an appointment with the trained professionals in our service center. And, if you’d like to learn more, check out this guide on the color of transmission fluid. We’re just a short drive away from Lincoln, so drop by or contact us today!